Trip Suggestions: Cascades or Sierras in Late May?
on 04/03/2011 20:09:31 MDT

Looking for some alpine hiking in late May. Wanted to do the Olympics, but snow will prevent this. Are the high Cascades doable this early in the season (late May?) Otherwise, considering suggestions. Sierras Nevadas seem a likely contender, but it's a huge area. Like to do 6 nights, alpine lakes are a plus (need to try out that Hane rod), and the more away from the beaten path the better. Willing to test our skills a bit with some snow, but non of us are technical climbers. All in good shape and eager though. Probably capable of some route finding. All suggestions welcome!

Trip Suggestions: Cascades or Sierras in Late May?
on 04/03/2011 20:37:37 MDT

In late May, you'll still be limited to low elevation river valleys, whether in the Cascades or Olympics. For the Olympics, the Hoh or the Quinault (Enchanted Valley) will be good.

Even in a normal or below-average snow year, don't expect any alpine areas to be accessible that early. We've had a big snowpack this year, so unless we have an unusually warm next 2 months (no sign of that yet!), it will probably be mid-July in most areas before you can get to the alpine areas, unless you don't mind a LOT of snow and the high lakes still frozen.

I'll leave the Sierra to those more familiar with it. I do know they also have a way-above-normal snow pack, though.

I guess I should say that alpine is desirable, but not necessarily required. We had a blast in Canyonlands late last year, certainly up for something along those lines as well, just thought it'd be nice to mix it up. Anything but Grand Canyon could work. Again, any suggestions welcome.